November 18th 2023.
Have you ever heard the term “ghost bagging”? It’s a new phrase travelers should be aware of after three women were arrested at the Nashville International Airport for allegedly participating in this illegal activity.
According to WSMV, the police were notified by Southwest Airlines on Nov. 13 that a bag had arrived to the airport without anyone flying with it. Inside the bag, officers found brand-new Lululemon clothes, a receipt, a forged driver’s license, and a credit card.
Shortly after, three women showed up to the airport to pick up the bag. Live 5 News reported that police uncovered an estimated $20,000 worth of gift cards, $9,000 worth of receipts and merchandise, and ten credit cards. Law enforcement believes the women were using stolen credit card information to buy clothes, then returning them to different stores to receive cash or store credit. Torryiel Griggs, the driver of the vehicle, was charged with theft of property, criminal simulation, and credit card fraud.
So what is a ghost bag? It’s a bag that is checked onto a plane without anyone accompanying it. Then, someone else waits at the arrival point to take the luggage from the carousel. Although the term may be new to travelers, law enforcement says it’s not uncommon. This process is used as a way to transport drugs or commit illegal activity.
Jennifer Larson, a passenger who flew out of BNA on Nov. 13, said she was surprised to hear about the ghost bag operation and the arrest.
“It’s kind of scary to think that people can put whatever they want in a piece of luggage and ship it,” Larson said. “I hope that they regulate that if a bag doesn’t have a passenger with it, then they don’t let the bag get on the plane. I mean, that’s common sense. If you are not on the plane, your bag shouldn’t be on the plane.”
Another passenger, Tracey Prue, feels that Nashville is being targeted due to its growing popularity.
“These criminals are just looking for any way to manipulate the system,” Prue said. “Baggage claim is so easy to pick up someone else’s bags…. Just be aware of your surroundings. If you see a bag going around by itself with nobody around, maybe let someone know.”
In the end, it’s important for travelers to be aware of the new term “ghost bagging” and understand the potential risks. Be vigilant and stay aware of your surroundings, especially when you’re at the airport. Remember, if a bag doesn’t have a passenger with it, it shouldn’t be on the plane.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
